The conjunctiva is the membrane that lines your eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. Symptoms of pink eye include redness in one or both eyes, eye irritation, itchiness, discharge that can crust on the eye, and tearing. This condition is extremely contagious with hand-to-eye contact and can quickly spread to others. Causes of pink eye include bacterial infections, allergens, viruses, and a clogged tear duct in newborn babies. Eye drops usually help it clear up. Antibiotic drops are used for bacterial pink eye, and allergy-triggered pink eye antihistamine drops. There’s not much that can be done for viral conjunctivitis as it just has to run its course. If you’re looking for a natural option to soothe pink eye symptoms, then aromatherapy and essential oils might help. Please note that there isn’t any evidence supporting essential oils curing pink eye directly, and they should never be applied directly to the eye.

Essential Oils As Natural Remedies

Essential oils (EOs) are highly concentrated plant extracts that offer multiple healing properties and health benefits. The use of essential oils as home remedies has increased in popularity as more people are looking for natural solutions to various ailments. Research indicates that these powerful oils can help boost the immune system and fight infections. EOs are also potent anti-inflammatory agents that help soothe irritations and discomforts. When used safely, they may provide relief from your symptoms but haven’t been proven to cure your pink eye.

The Best Essential Oils For Soothing Inflammation, Discomfort, & Irritation

These are the most gentle oils you can use to ease your symptoms: Lavender oil – Lavender essential oil is gentle and soothing while also being a potent anti-inflammatory, pain reliever, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, and antiviral. Chamomile oil – Chamomile is very gentle and soothing. It’s also a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiseptic. Frankincense oil – This oil is very anti-inflammatory and is also an excellent immune-boosting agent. It’s also a pain reliever, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiseptic, and sedative. The following oils are more potent anti-inflammatory options: Turmeric oil – Turmeric oil is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. When taken orally, turmeric can help boost immunity and strengthen your body’s defenses. Lemon oil – Lemon is an antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, and great for detox support. You can take a food or supplement grade form of this oil for a daily boost. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca) –
Tea tree essential oil is strong and effective. It’s anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral. It helps protect against infections but can irritate, even if it’s diluted. You should never put tea tree oil in your eyes or any other mucous membrane body part.

3 Ways To Use Essential Oils For Pink Eye Symptoms

Gentle Eye Rub:

1 drop chamomile oil 1 drop lavender oil 1 drop tea tree oil 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil

Dilute the EOs in the carrier oil of your choice. (Note that coconut oil is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal.) Gently rub or massage in circular motions around the affected eye (Don’t put the mixture near the eye or inside the eye.) For best results, apply at least twice a day – morning and evening.

Cold & Warm Compress:

2 cups of marigold (calendula) tea steeped in warm water for 7 minutes Add 1 drop chamomile oil and 1 drop turmeric oil to each teacup Keep 1 teacup warmed while you put the other in the fridge to cool Take 4 sterilized wash cloths or gauzes and steep them fully in the cool first. Drain them slightly and place them over both eyes for 3-5 minutes. Repeat the same process with the warm tea and leave the second round of compresses on your eyes for 3-5 minutes Keep your eyes tightly closed.

Tea Bag Infusion:

Steep two green tea bags in warm water for 5 minutes. Using a dropper top, add 2 drops of lavender oil. Add 2 drops of frankincense oil. Mix the tea with the oils and then gently press the excess fluid from the tea bags. Place the tea bags over both eyes for 5 minutes at a time.

Safety Concerns

When used safely, EOs usually offer little to no side effects. When used topically, EOs must always be diluted in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation and reactions. Perform a patch test on a non-affected area of the skin and wait 24 hours to confirm that there is no allergic reaction. If you experience any adverse reaction to any oil, discontinue use immediately and consult your healthcare provider to seek medical advice. Be aware of the contraindications for each oil you use as some EOs aren’t suitable for children or pregnant or nursing women. Always choose high quality, certified organic, and therapeutic grade products to avoid diluted batches and exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Create your own DIY essential oil blends to enhance and maximize their medicinal properties and therapeutic benefits.